Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam

There’s something undeniably special about homemade jams—especially when they combine the rich, fruity sweetness of cherries with the nutty, smooth notes of amaretto. This Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam is a delightful twist on the classic cherry preserve, offering a sweet and slightly boozy depth of flavor that’s perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or gifting to friends and family. The addition of amaretto, a sweet almond-flavored liqueur, gives this jam a grown-up touch that pairs beautifully with the tartness of fresh cherries.

Making jam at home is a rewarding experience, and it’s easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and some careful attention, you can create jars of this vibrant, aromatic jam to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re using it to jazz up your morning breakfast or as a decadent topping for ice cream, this cherry amaretto jam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The balance of sweetness from the sugar and the complex flavor of amaretto makes this jam stand out from the crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Sweet cherries meet nutty amaretto for a unique and delicious jam.
2. Simple Ingredients – Only a handful of ingredients are needed to create this flavorful preserve.
3. Homemade Goodness – There’s nothing like the satisfaction of homemade jam with no artificial additives.
4. Great for Gifting – Packaged in pretty jars, this jam makes a perfect gift for friends and family.
5. Versatile Use – Enjoy it on toast, as a topping for desserts, or mixed into yogurt or oatmeal.

Ingredients

• Sweet cherries (pitted and halved)
• Amaretto
• Granulated sugar
• Ball RealFruit classic pectin
• Lime juice

Variations

• Spiced Cherry Amaretto Jam: Add a cinnamon stick or a couple of cloves to the cooking mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Tart Cherry Version: Use tart cherries for a slightly tangier jam that balances well with the amaretto.
• Vanilla Infusion: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a vanilla bean to the mixture for a deeper flavor complexity.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar slightly for a more fruit-forward jam, though it may alter the setting properties.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherries

Wash, pit, and halve the cherries. If you don’t have a cherry pitter, a simple technique is to use a small knife to cut around the pit and remove it carefully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, combine the prepared cherries, amaretto, granulated sugar, pectin, and lime juice. Stir until the sugar and pectin are well incorporated.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it cook for 10-15 minutes, continuing to stir, until the jam thickens and passes the “gel test” (see tips below).

Step 4: Test the Jam

To test the jam, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and place it in the freezer for a couple of minutes. Run your finger through it—if it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back together, it’s ready to jar.

Step 5: Jar the Jam

Once the jam has reached the desired thickness, ladle it into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top. Seal the jars with sterilized lids.

Step 6: Process the Jars

Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Allow them to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Sterilize Your Jars: Make sure your jars and lids are clean and sterilized before filling to prevent contamination.
• Gel Test: If you’re unsure whether your jam has set, perform the “gel test” by placing a small spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
• Amaretto Flavor: If you prefer a less boozy flavor, you can reduce the amaretto slightly, though it will alter the taste slightly.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar slightly, but remember it helps the jam set properly.

How to Serve

This cherry amaretto jam is perfect on a toasted English muffin, scones, or a slice of fresh bread. It’s also fantastic as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or cheesecake. Pair it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant appetizer or use it as a filling for cakes, pastries, or thumbprint cookies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any unused jam in sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks once opened. Unopened jars that have been properly processed can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to one year.

Freezing

Although you can freeze jam, it’s best to consume it within 6 months for optimal flavor and texture. Leave some space at the top of the jar for expansion when freezing.

Reheating

To reheat jam, simply place it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until it loosens up. You can also microwave it in short bursts.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.

2. Do I need to use pectin?

Pectin helps the jam set, but if you prefer, you can make jam without it. However, you may need to cook the jam longer for it to thicken properly.

3. Can I use a different liqueur?

Yes, you could substitute amaretto with another nut-flavored liqueur like Frangelico, or use a fruit liqueur like cherry brandy for a different twist.

4. How long does it take to make homemade jam?

From start to finish, this jam takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including preparation, cooking, and processing.

5. How do I know when my jam is done?

The best way to test is the “gel test.” When your jam reaches the desired consistency, it’s ready for jarring.

6. Can I make this jam without lime juice?

Yes, lime juice adds a bit of acidity, but you can replace it with lemon juice or omit it entirely.

7. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar, but it may affect the setting properties of the jam.

8. How long can I store homemade jam?

Properly processed, homemade jam can be stored in a cool pantry for up to a year. Once opened, keep it refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

9. What if my jam doesn’t thicken?

If your jam doesn’t thicken, it may need more pectin or longer cooking time. You can reprocess it with additional pectin.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure you have enough pots and jars to handle the increased volume.

Conclusion

This Homemade Cherry Amaretto Jam is a delicious, luxurious spread that elevates any breakfast or dessert. With its perfect blend of sweet cherries, aromatic amaretto, and citrusy lime, it’s an unforgettable treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or serving it with cheese, this jam will quickly become a favorite in your pantry.

Print